Methods and apparatus for providing edible substances with a beverage

ABSTRACT

The present invention relates to apparatus and methods having a plurality for chambers for storing edible substances. More particularly, the present invention relates to container caps, storage units, kits, and methods for sealing and isolating a plurality of edible substances.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATIONS

This application makes reference to, and claims priority to, U.S. provisional application Ser. No. 60/817,267 filed Jun. 28, 2006.

FIELD OF THE INVENTION

The present invention relates to apparatus and methods for providing a plurality of edible substances with a beverage. More particularly, the present invention relates to container caps and kits having a plurality of chambers and a removable cover for sealing and isolating a plurality of edible substances.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

Beverages are widely sold in disposable and non-disposable containers in which the container has a removable cap. For example, bottled water, soda, sports drinks, and other beverages are sold throughout the world in plastic bottles and other containers. Those bottles and other containers typically have a cap to be unscrewed, unsnapped, or otherwise removed by the consumer.

Devices have been proposed for storing pills with a drinking fluid. For example, U.S. Pat. No. 5,397,017 (Muza et al.) discusses a pill dispenser including at least one closeable chamber for storing pills therein, and threads for attaching the pill dispenser to the opening of a drinking fluid container such that the dispenser serves as a cap for the container. The pill dispenser of the Muza '017 patent does not seal and isolate each chamber of the pill dispenser. The pill dispenser includes a rotating lid that has an opening so that only one of the chambers of the pill dispenser is open at a given time. As a result, at least one chamber cannot be used to store pills. Further, only one chamber's pills are dispensed at a given time, and the contents of all the chambers cannot be dispensed together.

As another example, U.S. Pat. No. 7,055,709 (Esau) discusses an infinitely stacking receptacle cap that cooperates with existing bottles and bottle caps for holding pills and other articles separate from liquid within the bottle. The Esau '709 patent discloses that a plurality of receptacles are stacked vertically on a bottle in order to provide pills and other articles (referred to as medicaments). To remove the medicaments from all of the stacked receptacles, each of the receptacles must be disconnected, which is inconvenient and time-consuming. Moreover, the receptacles are stacked vertically, so each additional receptacle increases the height, which can make the Esau device unwieldy to carry, unstable and prone to tipping, or undesirably tall for retail shelf space.

Other limitations or disadvantages of existing and proposed devices may become apparent in light of the present disclosure.

BRIEF SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

As one aspect of the invention, container caps are disclosed which have a plurality of chambers and a removable cover that seals and isolates the chambers. More particularly, the container caps comprise an exterior wall defining an interior volume and an opening. The container caps also comprise at least one interior wall surrounded by the exterior wall, and the interior wall divides the interior volume into a plurality of chambers. A removable cover engages the exterior wall and the interior wall(s), so as to seal and isolate each of the plurality of chambers. Additionally, the container caps comprise a connector adapted for connecting the container cap to an opening of a beverage container.

As another aspect of the invention, storage units adapted for connection to a beverage container at various locations on, within or around the beverage container are disclosed. The storage units have a plurality of chambers, and a removable cover is engaged with the storage unit to seal and isolate the chambers. More particularly, the storage units comprise an exterior wall defining an interior volume and an opening. The storage units also comprise at least one interior wall surrounded by the exterior wall, and the interior wall divides the interior volume into a plurality of chambers. A removable cover engages the exterior wall and the interior wall(s), so as to seal and isolate each of the plurality of chambers. Additionally, the storage units can include a connector adapted for connecting the storage unit to a connector surface on either the interior or exterior of a beverage container. Alternatively, a connector may be provided as a separate piece from the storage unit.

As another aspect of the invention, kits are disclosed for providing a plurality of edible substances in isolated chambers. The kits contain a storage unit, a plurality of edible substances in a plurality of chambers, and a removable cover that seals and isolates the chambers. More particularly, the storage unit of the kits comprises an exterior wall which defines an interior volume and an opening. The storage unit also comprises at least one interior wall surrounded by the exterior wall, and the interior wall divides the interior volume into a plurality of chambers. The plurality of edible substances are stored within the storage unit of the kits, such that at least one edible substance is isolated from at least one other edible substance. The removable cover is engaged with the exterior wall and the interior wall(s), so as to seal and isolate the chambers, such that the edible substance in each individual chamber is isolated from the edible substances in the other chambers. The kits further comprise a connector adapted for connecting the kit to a beverage container, such as to the opening of the beverage container so that the storage unit also serves as a container cap on the beverage container, or to a connector located on the interior of the beverage container, or to a recessed portion on the exterior of the beverage container. The storage unit can be any of the container caps described herein or may have a different design. For example, the storage unit may be as described herein that attaches to a connector within the interior of the beverage container, such as within the neck, or to the exterior of the beverage container, such as within a recessed portion on the underside of the beverage container. The kits can include any desired beverage in the beverage container, and the kit isolates the edible substances from the beverage.

As yet another aspect of the invention, methods for providing a plurality of edible substances with a beverage are described. The methods comprise disposing a plurality of edible substances among a plurality of chambers within a container cap or other storage unit. At least one edible substance can be isolated from all other edible substances. One or more chambers can be isolated from one or all of the other chambers. The methods further comprise sealing the container cap or storage unit by placing a removable cover over an opening on the container cap to close the container cap and form a seal between each of the plurality of isolated chambers. The storage unit can then be connected to a beverage container. For example, the beverage container is capped by physically connecting the container cap to an opening on the beverage container so as to form a liquid tight seal between the container cap and the beverage container. Also, for example, the storage unit may be snapped into place on a mating portion on the exterior of the beverage container, or inserted into a compartment located within the interior of the drinking container. The storage unit may additionally be permanantly affixed to the beverage container. The container cap or storage unit comprising a plurality of edible substances and the beverage container can be provided as a single unit.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1. depicts a container cap connected to a beverage container.

FIG. 2. depicts a cross section of a container cap containing edible substances connected to a beverage container.

FIG. 3 depicts an exploded image of a container cap containing edible substances and a beverage container.

FIG. 4 depicts a cross section of a second embodiment of a container cap containing edible substances connected to a beverage container with a tamper evident seal.

FIG. 5 depicts a container cap connected to a beverage container comprising a tamper evident seal between the container cap and the beverage container.

FIG. 6 depicts a cross section of a container cap containing edible substances. The container cap is connected to a beverage container, and a tamper evident seal is provided between the container cap and the beverage container.

FIG. 7 depicts an exploded image of a container cap containing edible substances and a container with a tamper evident seal indicating the container cap has been removed from the beverage container.

FIG. 8 depicts a cross section of a container cap with a peelably removable cover. The container cap contains edible substances in a variety of forms. The container cap is connected to a beverage container.

FIG. 9 depicts an exploded image of a container cap containing edible substances. A peelably removable cover is engaged with the container cap, which is connected to a beverage container.

FIG. 10 depicts a top view of an alternative embodiment of a container cap containing edible substances, where the container cap is disc shaped.

FIG. 11 depicts another view of the container cap shown in FIG. 10.

FIG. 12 depicts an alternative embodiment of a container cap containing edible substances. The container cap is connected to a beverage container where the beverage container contains a tea bag.

FIG. 13 depicts a cross section of an alternative embodiment of a container cap containing edible substances connected to a beverage container, where the edible substances are disposed within the volume defined by the beverage container.

FIG. 14 depicts an exploded image of an alternative embodiment of a container cap containing edible substances and a beverage container, where the edible substances are disposed in a location within the volume defined by the beverage container.

FIG. 15 depicts a view of a beverage container with an internal connector for a storage unit.

FIG. 16 depicts the beverage container of FIG. 15 with a storage unit unit located within the beverage container.

FIG. 17 depicts a side view of the storage unit of FIG. 16 removed from the beverage container.

FIG. 18 depicts another view of the storage unit of FIG. 16 with the cover removed.

FIG. 19 depicts a storage unit connected to the bottom of a beverage container.

FIGS. 20-22 depict various arrangements of a removable cover on a storage unit.

FIG. 23 depicts a view from above of an alternative embodiment of a container cap connected to a beverage container.

FIG. 24 depicts a cross sectional view of the embodiment depicted in FIG. 23.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE PREFERRED EMBODIMENTS

The present disclosure describes novel apparatus and methods for storing and isolating a plurality of edible substances such as vitamins, medicines, or other nutritional and dietary supplements. Container caps and storage units can be connected to beverage containers containing a liquid beverage or a dry beverage-producing agent, to provide kits and beverage assemblies. The apparatus and methods are suitable and adapted for storing and isolating different edible substances, including various edible substances that are not stable when combined with each other or that should not be mixed together prior to consumption.

The present apparatus and methods are useful for providing a plurality of edible substances to a consumer, including where it is desirable to store the edible substances in isolation from each other. Some individual edible substances such as nutritional, pharmaceutical and other compounds may have a limited efficacy in combating a particular disease or malady or in promoting health. For instance, an individual edible substance may interact or interfere with one of several molecular pathways, or it may have a therapeutic window such that a dosage amount desired for high efficacy may be toxic to some consumers. As a result, some pharmaceutical, nutritional or other edible substances (each of which may target a distinct function) may have a combined effect when taken together that is greater than the sum of their individual effects. Such a strategy, termed synergy (or synergistic supplementation), may limit toxicity while increasing efficacy.

Accordingly, many individuals are instructed or desire to ingest multiple distinct chemical substances, compounds, medicines or supplements in a single serving. Such an instruction or desire may, however, mean that the individual has to acquire several different compounds from different locations and in various quantities with later “mixing and matching” before consumption. Because this process is laborious and requires multiple steps, there are several opportunities for error as well as an increased risk of noncompliance. It is therefore desirable to have a container that is capable of storing and isolating a plurality of edible substance in a convenient and efficient manner.

Additionally, many edible substances such as vitamins dietary supplements, medicines, and pharmaceutical, nutritional or chemical substances are easier or more pleasant to consume when consumed with a beverage. Having a beverage readily available is convenient for those who require or desire to consume such substances regularly, with the aid of a beverage. Those individuals, however, may have to carry a beverage along with any supplements at all times, in a separate container, or may have to purchase a beverage separately from the edible substances. It is therefore further desirable to produce an apparatus that is capable of storing and separating a plurality of edible substances that is readily connectable to a beverage container such that one unit may replace a plurality of containers of beverages and edible substances. Accordingly, it is one object of the present invention to provide apparatus and methods that store and isolate a plurality of edible substances while being connectable to a beverage container such that a beverage and a plurality of edible substances may be transported as a single unit.

Many edible substances come in a variety of forms such as liquids, powders, granules, and pills (tablets and capsules). The present methods and apparatus facilitate the storage of multiple edible substances where one or more of the substances is in a non-rigid form without the potential interaction of the substances. Such interaction could be deleterious or harmful in that it may lead to undesirable chemical alterations or reactions of the substances, it may result in loss of efficacy or hasten spoilage of the substances, and it may even lead to toxicity of individual substances. Additionally, where even traces of one substance contact another substance, unsuspecting consumers may consume traces of substances not intended to be consumed. This can be particularly dangerous to those consumers with highly sensitive allergies. Accordingly, the present apparatus and methods provide a plurality of chambers where each chamber is isolated from the other chambers, such that an individual edible substance may be disposed within each individual chamber without coming into contact with the other edible substances prior to consumption by the consumer. Optionally, the present apparatus and methods may be arranged so that the consumer can remove the cover for one or more of the chambers without removing the cover from another chamber.

The present apparatus and methods can be used to provide a plurality of edible substances with a beverage as a single unit while overcoming many of the disadvantages of existing and proposed devices. A single container cap or storage unit connected to a beverage container provides for convenient access to a plurality of isolated edible substances without requiring the removal and connection of multiple containers. A kit comprising edible substances connected to a beverage container can be arranged and stacked for attractive and convenient retail shelf display. The removable cover of the container cap or storage unit can allow for a plurality of chambers of various sizes or shapes to selectively store greater or smaller quantities of certain edible substances. Sealing and isolating each chamber comprising an edible substance can allow for a longer shelf-life of the edible substance. The edible substances may be purchased by a user for consumption at a time of the user's choosing. A kit may provide a plurality of edible substances that have a synergistic effect towards achieving a particular goal such as the prevention or treatment of disease or the improvement of health, when the substances are consumed at substantially the same time. One or more of these and other advantages can be provided by various embodiments of the present apparatus and methods.

The present container caps, storage units and beverage containers can be any suitable size, shape, and material. For example, the container caps or storage units and beverage containers can be plastic (such as polyethylene or polypropylene), metal (such as aluminum), glass, or another material. These apparatus can be disposable or non-disposable. Beverage containers are commonly and widely used to contain drinking fluids or dry, beverage producing substances such as teabags, coffee and soluble powdered beverage mixes. In the present apparatus and methods, the beverage containers can be a standard size (e.g., 12 ounce, 20 ounce, 32 ounce, 1 liter, 2 liter) or can be another size.

The present apparatus and methods generally include a removable cover. The removable cover engages a container cap or storage unit, preferably by intimate physical contact and/or by an adhesive. The removable cover engages the exterior and/or interior walls of the container cap or storage unit. The removable cover can be engaged in any suitable way, such as by corresponding threads so that the cover can be screwed onto the container cap. The cover may snap onto the container cap, or the cover may be glued or adhered to the container cap with an adhesive. The cover can be any suitable material and shape, such as a plastic or metal cover having the approximate height of a conventional bottle cap, or a foil or film with a thickness of 1 mm or less. The cover can be a peelably removable cover, such as a foil, laminate, or plastic sheet. The removable cover can optionally be connected to the container cap via a tamper evident seal. A tamper evident seal may be integral with or part of the exterior wall of the apparatus, and/or it may be provided as a separate component of the apparatus, such as a plastic wrapper around the exterior wall and the removable cover and/or a portion of the beverage container.

The present apparatus and methods may be more easily envisioned by reference to the Figures and associated descriptions through it. However, the invention is not limited to the particular Figures and associated descriptions.

FIG. 1 shows a container cap 10 comprising an exterior wall 20 and a removable cover 30. The cap 10 is connected to the neck 60 of a beverage container 50 via a connector 40 located at a portion of the cap 10 opposite the portion connected to the removable cover 30. The container cap can be used with a beverage container 50, which has a neck 60 and a neck opening 70 located at the end of the neck 60 to allow dry or fluid contents 100 to be transferred into and out of the beverage container 50 via the neck opening 70 as desired.

FIGS. 2 and 3 show the interior volume of the container cap 10 which is defined on the periphery by an exterior wall 20 with an upper surface 20a, and on the top by an opening 15 that connects with the removable cover 30. The exterior wall 20 may be integral with or joined to a bottom surface 12 of the container cap. The bottom surface 12 defines the lower boundary of the interior volume of the cap 10; however, alternative embodiments include an exterior wall 20 having a conical or bowl shape such that the exterior wall 20 forms the lower boundary (in addition to the side boundaries) defining the interior volume of the container cap 10. FIG. 2 depicts an embodiment where the exterior wall 20 is tapered such that the container cap 10 is relatively wider at the opening 15, than at the bottom surface 12, and FIG. 4 depicts an embodiment where the exterior wall 20 is vertical, defining a cylinder shaped interior volume.

Interior walls 14 divide the interior volume into a plurality of chambers 18. Although the figures depict an embodiment comprised of six substantially identically sized chambers 18 established by three intersecting interior walls 14, the container cap could have two, four, five, or any other number of interior walls 14, and the container cap could have two, three, four, five, six, seven, eight, or any other number of chambers. The chambers can be arranged in any fashion, though it is preferable that the chambers are horizontally disposed around the container cap, so as to reduce the height of the container cap. Generally there will be at least one interior wall 14 defining at least two chambers 18. Each interior wall 14 is integral with or joined to the bottom surface 12, the exterior wall 20, and another interior wall 14. The top surfaces 14a of the interior walls 14 extend at least as high as the top surface 20a of the exterior wall 20. The chambers 18 are horizontally disposed around the axis of the opening of the beverage container. The present apparatus need not be limited by the number of interior walls 14, or the number, size or shape of the chambers 18 within the cap 10. For example, alternative embodiments can include differently sized chambers, such as a larger chamber and a smaller chamber. This embodiment may be desirable if one wishes to provide different volumes of various edible substances in the container cap.

In FIG. 2, the removable cover 30 is connected to the exterior wall 20 via a threaded portion 31 on the interior surface 34 of a lip 36 on the cover 30 that corresponds with a threaded portion 21 on the exterior surface 24 of the exterior wall 20. The removable cover 30 seals and isolates each of the plurality of chambers 18. Optionally, the removable cover 30 may hermetically seal each of the plurality of chambers 18.

FIG. 4 illustrates other embodiments of the present apparatus and methods in which the container cap includes a tamper evident seal 101. The tamper evident seal 101 comprises a tear strip 101a connected to the removable cover 30 and the exterior wall 20 of the cap. Alternatively or additionally, the tamper evident seal 101 may comprise a wrapping, a perforated rim, or any mechanism for providing an indication when the contents of a container have been previously accessed by a person other than the container's supplier.

FIG. 2 shows the bottom surface 38 of the removable cover 30 forming a seal by engaging the top surfaces 14 a (shown more clearly in FIG. 3) of the interior walls 14 and the top surface 20 a of the exterior wall 20. To facilitate the forming of a seal, the bottom surface 38 of the removable cover 30 can be formed from or coated with a resilient material, such as a soft plastic, rubber, or another material. For example, the interior surface of the cover may have a plastic liner. The resilient material can be compressed by the top surfaces 14 a of the interior walls 14 to form a tight seal.

The seal between the removable cover 30 and the interior walls 14 establishes a plurality of isolated chambers 18 within the container cap 10. The chambers 18 are isolated from each other and the outside environment. The seal can be a hermetic seal or a water or liquid impermeable seal. As a result of forming a seal, contents 22 disposed within each individual chamber 18 can be isolated from one another when the cover 30 is engaged with the container cap 10. Isolating each individual chamber 18 allows for the placement of a plurality of different edible substances 22 of solid, liquid, powder or granule form within the cap 10, without the interaction of the different substances 22 before removal of the cover 30.

FIG. 2 also shows a connector 40 comprising an opening 42 having an interior wall 44 comprising a threaded portion 46. The threaded portion 46 of the container cap 10 is connected to a corresponding threaded portion 66 located on the neck 60 of a beverage container 50. The connector 40 may connect to the neck 60 of a beverage container 50 via any means for connecting a cap to a container, such as the screw arrangement shown in FIG. 2, or a snap-on lid configuration, or by an adhesive, or by being melted or molded together. When the container cap 10 is connected onto the neck 60 of the beverage container 50, a connector surface 48 may engage with the rim 64 located on the neck 60 of the beverage container 50 establishing a liquid tight seal on the opening 70 of the neck 60 of the beverage container 50.

FIGS. 5, 6 and 7 illustrate other embodiments of the present container caps, kits and methods. A connector 40 comprises a tamper evident seal such as a tear strip, wrapping, perforated rim, and/or any of a variety of methods and mechanisms for providing an indication when the contents of the beverage container 50 have been previously accessed. FIGS. 5 and 6 depict the connector 40 frangibly connected to a ring 105, establishing a tamper evident connection. A protrubence 104 located on the neck 60 of the beverage container 50 aids in severing the frangible connection between the connector 40 and the ring 105 when the connector 40 is removed from the neck 60 of the beverage container for the first time after the ring 105 has been attached to the connector 40. FIG. 7 depicts an embodiment where the ring 105 has been severed from the connector 40.

FIGS. 23 and 24 illustrate another embodiment of the present container caps, kits and methods. The container cap 10 of the embodiment depicted in FIGS. 23 and 24 may comprise multiple chambers 18 and 18a of various shapes. FIG. 23 depicts the container cap 10 situated on a beverage container 50 where the removable cover 30 has been removed. Four chambers, three of which are identically sized 18, and one triangular shaped chamber is shown situated adjacent to each identically sized chamber 18. Three internal walls 14 a define the triangular chamber 18 a and adjoin interior walls 14 to establish the outer boundaries of the identically sized chambers 18. FIG. 24 depicts a cross-sectional view of the beverage container with the container cap 10 connected. The contents 22 of the container cap 10 in this embodiment may lie flat in order to occupy less vertical space. Additionally, triangular chamber 18 a may contain a tablet, powder or granule or any other edible substance described therein. The size and shape of the chambers 18 and 18 a is not meant to limit the type or variety of the contents stored therein. For example, the contents of the chambers 18 may each comprise an identical substance, while chamber 18 a contains a different substance, or the contents of all four chambers 18 and 18 a may comprise the same substance. Additionally, each chamber may contain a substance entirely unique to each of the other chambers.

FIGS. 8 and 9 illustrate other embodiments of the present methods and apparatus. In FIGS. 8 and 9, the container cap 10 includes a peelably removable cover 5. The peelably removable cover 5 may be a foil or a thin plastic material that is laminated to the top surface 20 a of the exterior wall 20 and/or the top surfaces 14 a of the interior walls 14. When laminated to the top surfaces 14 a of the interior walls 14, the peelable cover isolates each of the individual chambers 18. The peelably removable cover 5 may be arranged such that the contents 22 of each individual chamber 18 become accessible when the cover 5 is removed. Alternatively, the peelably removable cover 5 may be arranged such that portions of the cover 5 may be removed to provide access only to the contents 22 of selective individual chambers 18 as desired by a user. The peelably removable cover 5 may comprise a tab 6 to provide a surface that can be grasped, and a force can be applied to the cover 5 through the tab 6 to remove the peelably removable cover 5 from the container cap 10.

FIG. 8 also illustrates that the chambers can store a liquid 22 a, a powder 22 b, or granules 22 c. The liquid 22 a, powder 22 b, and granules 22 c are shown in FIG. 8. For illustrative purposes only, it is contemplated that the container cap shown in FIG. 8 could have one of those forms or a different form. It is also contemplated that a liquid 22 a, powder 22 b, and/or granules 22 c could be disposed in one or more of the chambers in the container caps shown in FIGS. 1-7 and 9-14 as well.

FIGS. 10 and 11 illustrate other embodiments of the present methods and apparatus, where an exterior wall 20 forms a cylinder establishing a discuss shaped cap 10. A cover (not shown) can be disposed on top or on bottom of the exterior wall. For example, a peelably removable cover (not shown) can be located within the beverage container 50 and located on the same side of the cap 10 as the connector (also not shown) which provides a snap-on connection.

As yet another alternative, the container cap 10 may be connected to a beverage container 50 that contains a dry substance 80 such as a tea bag, coffee, or a soluble powder as depicted in FIG. 12.

FIGS. 13 and 14 illustrate other embodiments of the present apparatus and methods. A cap 10 may comprise a storage unit 110 where the exterior wall 120 tapers inwards, as depicted in FIGS. 13 and 14, such that the chambers 118 are situated in a location within the volume of the beverage container 50 when the cap 10 is thereby connected. The storage unit 110 comprises an exterior wall 120 having an upper surface 120 a, a bottom surface 112 and an opening 115 defining the interior volume of the storage unit 110. A substantially horizontal portion of the exterior wall 120 rests upon the mouth 64 of the beverage container. The substantially horizontal portion optionally includes a downward vertical portion so that the storage unit 110 can hood onto the mouth 64. The interior volume of the storage unit 110 is divided into a plurality of chambers 118 by interior walls 114 having a top surface 114 a. The interior walls 114 engage with the exterior wall 120 and the bottom surface 112 to create a plurality of chambers 118. A cover 130 having a top surface 132, a lower surface 134 and a lip 140 having an interior surface 142 engages to the storage unit 110, forming a seal between the lower surface 134 of the cover 130 and the storage unit 110, such that the opening 115 of the storage unit 110 is located inside the area defined by the lip 140 of the cover 130. The container cap 10 is connected to a beverage container 50 via a threaded portion 144 on the interior surface 142 of the lip 140 of the cover 130 corresponding to a threaded portion 66 located on the neck 60 of a beverage container 50. In this embodiment, the storage unit 110 may be disengaged from the cover 130 after the cap 10 is removed from the beverage container 50.

FIGS. 15-22 depict embodiments of methods and apparatuses for providing edible substances in a storage unit adapted for attachment to a beverage container, for example, on the external surface of the beverage container or in a location internal to the beverage container. Unlike the embodiments of FIGS. 1-14, the storage unit embodiments depicted here do not serve as caps for the beverage container or reside within the opening of the beverage container. However, the storage unit may detachably connect with caps of the beverage container in certain embodiments. FIG. 15 depicts an embodiment of a beverage container 50 comprising a beverage cap 230, and a connector 220 located on the inner wall 51 of the beverage container 50. The connector 220 comprises a side wall 225, a top lip 224 with a tab 223, and a bottom lip 222 with a tab 221. The connector may be used to connect a storage unit 210 to the beverage container 50 as depicted in FIG. 16. The storage unit 210 may be any of a number of embodiments, such as storage unit 110 of FIGS. 13-14 or any of the embodiments for storage units described elsewhere. The storage unit 210 may attach to the connector 220 via a snap-in attachment. The connector 220 may be made of a flexible material such as plastic, such that the upper lip 224 and/or the lower lip 222 of the connector 220 flex slightly to allow insertion of the storage unit 210, and then revert back to secure the container 210 in place. Side wall 225 cooperates with the tab 221 of the lower lip 222 and tab 223 of the upper lip 224 to secure the storage unit 210 laterally, while upper lip 224 and lower lip 222 secure the storage unit 210 vertically. The storage unit 210 may be removed from the connector 220 by slightly displacing either the upper lip 224 or the lower lip 222 and disconnecting the container 210.

FIGS. 17-18 depict an embodiment of the storage unit 210 of FIG. 16. The interior volume of the storage unit is defined by a first surface 217, a second surface 216 and a peripheral surface 212. The interior volume is divided into a plurality of chambers 218 by at least one interior wall 214. An opening 215 allows for removal of contents 22 of the chambers, which are preferably edible substances. A compartment cover 206 is removably engaged with the compartment at the opening 215 and provides a sealed enclosure of the interior volume of the container 210. As with the container cap described supra, when sealed by the removable compartment cover 206, a plurality of isolated chambers 218 are formed. The isolation of each chamber allows for transportation of the storage unit 210 without interaction of the edible substances 22 stored therein. FIG. 18 depicts an embodiment of the storage unit 210 where the cover 206 has been peelably removed. A thumb tab 205 is provided on the seal 206 to assist a user with removal of the seal 206. The cover 206 in this embodiment is peelably removable, however, the cover 206 may removed in a variety of other ways. For example, any of the embodiments for the container caps depicted in FIGS. 1-14 and described supra could also serve as a cover 206.

FIG. 19 depicts another embodiment where the storage unit 210 is attached to a recessed portion 52 of the beverage container 50. A connector (not shown) on the storage unit 210 may allow for a snap in, or screw in connection to a corresponding connector portion on the beverage container 50. In this embodiment, a user may disconnect the storage unit 210 from the beverage container 50, remove the cover 206 remove the desired edible substances 22 stored therein, replace the cover 206, and reconnect the storage unit 210 to the beverage container 50 for simple transportation. Though the figure depicts a connection of the storage unit 210 to a recessed portion 52 on the underside of the beverage container 50, other embodiments may involve connecting the storage unit 210 to other locations on a beverage container 50, such as on or around the neck, on the cap or on the side of the beverage container 50. Additionally, such portions of the beverage container may or may not be recessed.

In a further embodiment of the invention, the storage unit 210 is permanently affixed to the beverage container 50. In this embodiment, the connector 207 may be a permanent attachment such as an adhesion or a weld. Alternatively, the walls of the storage unit 210 may be extrusions or protrusions from the beverage container 50 itself. In this embodiment, only the removable cover 206 is removable from the beverage container, and the user may either reach into the storage unit 210 or tip the beverage container 50 to remove the contents 22.

FIGS. 20-22 depict embodiments of the storage unit 210 wherein the cover 206 is located in various locations on the storage unit 210. FIG. 20 depicts a storage unit 210 wherein the cover 206 attaches to the top surface of the storage unit 210. In this embodiment, the contents 22 are removed from the chambers through the top of the unit when the cover 206 is removed. FIG. 21 depicts a storage unit where the cover 206 extends around the peripheral surface of the storage unit 210. In this embodiment the contents 22 are removed from the periphery of the storage unit 210 once the cover 206 is peelably removed. A connector 207 is also depicted for connecting to a corresponding connecting portion of a beverage container 50. This storage unit 210 may be used, for example, in the embodiment depicted in FIG. 19 to snap into place within a recessed portion 52 of a beverage container 50. FIG. 22 depicts another embodiment where the cover 206 connects to the bottom of the storage unit 210. In this embodiment, the contents 22 are removed through the bottom of the storage unit 210.

Kits for providing a plurality of isolated edible substances with a beverage can be arranged as shown in any of FIGS. 1-22. The kits comprise a storage unit having a plurality of chambers. The storage unit can comprise any of the container caps shown in FIGS. 1-22. For example, as shown in FIGS. 1 and 3, a storage unit (e.g., a container cap) comprises an exterior wall 20 defining an interior volume and an opening 15. At least one interior wall 14 surrounded by the exterior wall 20 divides the interior volume into a plurality of chambers 18. The kit comprises a plurality of edible substances stored within the chambers 18, wherein at least two different edible substances are stored within the kit in isolation from one another. A removable cover 30 is engaged with the exterior wall 20 of the storage unit, and with interior walls 14, so as to seal and isolate each of the plurality of chambers, such that edible substances 22 disposed within the chambers 18 are isolated from one another. A connector 40 adapted for connecting the kit to an opening 70 of a beverage container 50 is located on the bottom of the kit. A beverage is provided in the beverage container 50.

The kits may comprise a plurality of edible substances that have a desirable effect (preferably a synergistic effect) when consumed at substantially the same time. For example, the kit may contain combinations of protein capsules, lipids or oil capsules, fibers capsules, antioxidants, phytochemicals, and/or vitamins. By way of example, each edible substance in a combination may synergistically assist to reduce cholesterol levels, reduce arterial inflammation and blood clotting, and reduce blood sugar and insulin responses to sugars. The kits can be used to facilitate synergistic supplementation. Consumption of such combinations of edible substances can be an effective means to combat coronary heart disease. Additionally, a kit can be designed for consumption before, during and after periods of exercise to increase energy, improve performance, increase muscle mass, and/or speed recovery where the kit comprises an electrolyte-rich beverage to hydrate and replenish electrolytes together with supplements that produce the aforementioned effects.

Another example of synergistic supplementation includes combinations of insoluble fibers, proteins and other compounds that slow blood sugar elevations and reduce blood insulin responses, and supplements to increase metabolism. Regular consumption of such substances together can have a synergistic effects help to minimize weight gain or encourage weight loss.

Methods for providing a plurality of edible substances with a beverage may be performed as disclosed above in connection with FIGS. 1-22. Such methods generally comprise disposing a plurality of edible substances in a plurality of isolated chambers within a container cap or other storage unit. At least one edible substance is isolated from one or all of the other edible substances. The container cap is sealed by placing a removable cover over an opening on the container cap to close the container cap and form a fluid impermeable seal between each of the plurality of isolated chambers. The beverage container is then capped by physically connecting the container cap to an opening on the neck of the beverage container to form a liquid tight seal between the container cap and the beverage container. The methods can thus provide a plurality of edible substances and a beverage container as a single unit.

In the present disclosure, use of the singular includes the plural except where specifically indicated. In the present disclosure, any of the functions recited herein may be performed by one or more means for performing such functions. The present apparatus and methods may include various means for performing one or more of the steps or actions described in this disclosure. It is expressly contemplated and disclosed that the present specification provides a written description for claims comprising such means.

All patents, test procedures, and other documents cited herein are fully incorporated by reference to the extent such disclosure is not inconsistent with this invention and for all jurisdictions in which such incorporation is permitted.

While particular steps, elements, embodiments and applications of the present invention have been shown and described, it will be understood that the invention is not limited thereto since modifications can be made by those skilled in the art, particularly in light of the foregoing teachings.

Although the dependent claims have single dependencies in accordance with U.S. patent practice, each of the features in any of the dependent claims can be combined with each of the features of other dependent claims or the main claim. 

1. A container cap comprising: (a) an exterior wall defining an interior volume and an opening; (b) at least one interior wall surrounded by the exterior wall that divides the interior volume into a plurality of chambers; (c) a removable cover engaged with the exterior wall and the at least one interior wall so as to seal and isolate each of the plurality of chambers; and (d) a connector adapted for connecting the cap to an opening of a beverage container.
 2. The container cap of claim 1 wherein the connector comprises an opening having an inner wall, and the inner wall comprises a threaded portion.
 3. The container cap of claim 1 wherein each of the plurality of chambers is hermetically sealed by the removable cover.
 4. The container cap of claim 1 wherein the cover is peelably removable from the exterior wall.
 5. A beverage assembly comprising the container cap of claim I and a beverage container, wherein the cap is connected to an opening of the beverage container, and the beverage container contains a liquid.
 6. A storage unit comprising: (a) an exterior wall defining an interior volume and an opening; (b) at least one interior wall surrounded by the exterior wall that divides the interior volume into a plurality of chambers; (c) a removable cover engaged with the exterior wall and the at least one interior wall so as to seal and isolate each of the plurality of chambers; and (d) a connector adapted for connecting the storage unit to a beverage container.
 7. The storage unit of claim 6 wherein the connector comprises a tabbed protrusion for connecting to a beverage container via a snap-fit connection.
 8. The storage unit of claim 6 wherein each of the plurality of chambers is hermetically sealed by the removable cover.
 9. The storage unit of claim 6 wherein the cover is peelably removable from the exterior wall.
 10. The storage unit of claim 6 wherein the seal formed between the cover and the storage unit is tamper evident.
 11. A beverage assembly comprising the storage unit of claim 6 and a beverage container, wherein the attachment is connected to the interior or exterior of the beverage container, the beverage container contains a liquid, and the storage unit does not serve as the cap for the beverage connector.
 12. A kit for providing a plurality of isolated edible substances with a beverage, the kit comprising: (1) a storage unit comprising: (a) an exterior wall defining an interior volume and an opening; (b) at least one interior wall surrounded by the exterior wall that divides the interior volume into a plurality of chambers; (c) a removable cover engaged with the exterior wall and the at least one interior wall so as to seal and isolate each of the plurality of chambers, such that the first edible substance is isolated from the second edible substance; and (d) a connector adapted for connecting the storage unit to a beverage container; and (2) a first edible substance stored within at least one of the chambers of the storage unit; (3) a second edible substance stored within at least one of the chambers of the storage unit, provided that the second edible substance is in a different chamber than the first edible substance.
 13. The kit of claim 12 wherein the removable cover is peelably removable.
 14. The kit of claim 12 wherein the first edible substance and the second edible substance have a synergistic effect when consumed at substantially the same time.
 15. The kit of claim 12 further comprising a beverage container containing a liquid, wherein the connector of the storage unit is connected to an opening of the beverage container, and the connector forms a liquid tight seal with the opening of the beverage container.
 16. The kit of claim 15 wherein the seal formed between the connector and the beverage container is tamper evident.
 17. The kit of claim 15 wherein the liquid provided in the beverage container and one or both of the first and second edible substances have a synergistic effect when consumed at substantially the same time.
 18. The kit of claim 15 wherein the storage chamber is at least partially disposed within an interior volume of the beverage container.
 19. The kit of claim 12 further comprising a beverage container containing a liquid, wherein the connector of the storage unit is connected to a connector portion of the beverage container.
 20. The kit of claim 19 wherein the storage unit is connected to a recessed portion on the outside of the beverage container.
 21. The kit of claim 20 wherein the storage unit is connected to the bottom of the beverage container.
 22. The kit of claim 19 wherein the liquid provided in the beverage container and one or both of the first and second edible substances have a synergistic effect when consumed at substantially the same time.
 23. The kit of claim 19 wherein the storage unit is at least partially disposed within an interior volume of the beverage container.
 24. The kit of claim 19 wherein the storage unit is permanently affixed to the beverage container.
 25. The kit of claim 13 wherein the first edible substance and the second edible substance are unstable when in physical contact.
 26. The kit of claim 13 wherein the first edible substance is a liquid.
 27. The kit of claim 13 wherein the first edible substance is a solid selected from the group consisting of powders and granules.
 28. The kit of claim 13 wherein each of the isolated chambers is hermetically sealed.
 29. A method for providing a plurality of edible substances with a beverage, the method comprising: (a) disposing a plurality of edible substances in a plurality of isolated chambers within a storage unit, wherein at least one edible substance is isolated from all other edible substances; (b) sealing the storage unit by placing a removable cover over an opening on the storage unit to close the storage unit and form a seal between each of the plurality of isolated chambers; (c) physically connecting the storage unit to a beverage container; wherein the container comprising a plurality of edible substances and the beverage container are provided as a single unit.
 30. The method of claim 29 wherein the storage unit is a container cap, and the container cap is physically connected to an opening on the beverage container so as to form a liquid impermeable seal between the container cap and the beverage container.
 31. The method of claim 30 further comprising forming a tamper evident connection between the container cap and the beverage container.
 32. The method of claim 29 wherein the storage unit is physically connected to an external surface of the beverage container.
 33. The method of claim 32 wherein the storage unit is physically connected to a recessed portion on the outside of the beverage container.
 34. The method of claim 29 wherein the storage unit is attached to a connector located inside the beverage container.
 35. The method of claim 29 wherein at least two edible substances disposed in the isolated chambers have a synergistic effect when consumed at substantially the same time. 